Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
- 1 cup fresh or frozen whole cranberries
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 whole cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole star anise
- 6 whole cloves
- 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Start by rinsing your fresh cranberries under cold water and discarding any soft or bruised berries. Slice your orange into thin, even rounds. If you are using honey, ensure it is at room temperature so it dissolves easily. Gather all your whole spices—cinnamon, star anise, and cloves—so they are ready to drop into the pot.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cranberry juice, water, whole cranberries, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add the orange slices and your choice of sweetener. Let the mixture steep for about 12 to 15 minutes. Watch as the cranberries begin to pop slightly, releasing their natural juices and deep color into the liquid.
- Taste the drink and add more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter profile. Use a slotted spoon to remove the whole cloves and star anise if you want a smoother drinking experience, or leave them in for a rustic look. Ladle the hot liquid into glass mugs, ensuring each glass gets a few cooked cranberries and an orange slice. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and an extra cinnamon stick for a professional, festive finish.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes